Writer O. Henry to be honored with postage stamp

The U.S. Postal Service today issued a commemorative Forever stamp honoring literary giant O. Henry during a ceremony at the Greensboro Historical Museum. The stamp is on sale today at Post Offices nationwide and can be purchased online at usps.com/shop or by phone at 800-Stamp24 (800-782-6724).

The stamp commemorates the 150th anniversary of the birth of O. Henry, the pen name of William S. Porter. Born in Greensboro, NC, Sept. 11, 1862, O. Henry became one of America’s most popular writers of short fiction. His stories, such as The Gift of the Magi, The Last Leaf, and The Ransom of Red Chief, are known for their humor, irony and skillful unfolding of plot, often with a surprise twist at the end.

“O. Henry was one of America’s wittiest and most popular short fiction writers,” said U.S. Postal Service Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President Megan Brennan.

“Beginning today, O. Henry will travel wherever the U.S. Mail goes, and we are proud to share his legacy with millions of Americans through this new stamp,” Brennan said.

Brennan officially dedicated the stamp and was joined by O. Henry impersonator Stephen Hale; Carol Ghiorsi Hart, director, Greensboro Historical Museum; Margaret Benjamin, president, Board of Trustees, Greensboro Historical Museum; Denise Turner Roth, city manager, Greensboro; Russell D. Gardner, Greensboro district manager, U.S. Postal Service; and Ronald L. White, postmaster, Greensboro.

The pungency of the language in O. Henry’s stories and the cinematic speed of their telling have been seen as characteristically American. Noted critic, Guy Davenport, compared O. Henry’s jauntily comic prose to ragtime music. Another critic, Burton Raffel, contrasted him with the realistic writers of his day, such as Frank Norris, Theodore Dreiser, and Stephen Crane, who represented the world as truthfully as they could in their work. Pain, poverty, and death have a presence in O. Henry’s stories, but the dominant sense of lightness and gaiety is unmistakable.

By the time of his death on June 5, 1910, he was the most widely read storyteller in America, and was internationally admired. He wrote nearly 300 stories — most in the final eight years of his life.

Drawing on O. Henry’s close association with New York City, art director Ethel Kessler designed the stamp using work by illustrator Cap Pannell. His portrait of O. Henry was based on a photograph of the author as a young man, probably from the late 1880s. As reference for the background, Pannell used an image — created by A. Loeffler in the early 20th century and now in the collection of the New York Public Library — of the elevated rail in New York. The stamp art was sketched in pencil and ink and then manipulated on the computer.

Customers may view the O. Henry Forever commemorative stamp, as well as many of this year’s other stamps, on Facebook at facebook.com/USPSStamps, through Twitter @USPSstamps or on the website Beyond the Perf at beyondtheperf.com. Beyond the Perf is the Postal Service’s online site for background on upcoming stamp subjects, first-day-of-issue events and other philatelic news.

How to Order the First-Day-of-Issue Postmark, O. Henry Forever Stamp
Customers have 60 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase the new stamp at a local Post Office, at The Postal Store website at usps.com/shop or by calling 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724). They should affix the stamp to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes (to themselves or others) and place them in larger envelopes addressed to:

O. Henry Stamp
Postmaster
Greensboro Main Office
201 N. Murrow Blvd.
Greensboro, NC 27420-9998


After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service will return the envelopes by mail. There is no charge for the postmark. All orders must be postmarked by Nov. 12, 2012.


How to Order First-Day Covers
The Postal Service also offers first-day covers for new stamp issues and Postal Service stationery items postmarked with the official first-day-of-issue cancellation. Each item has an individual catalog number and is offered in the quarterly USA Philatelic catalog, online at usps.com/shop or by calling 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724). Customers may request a free catalog by calling 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724) or writing to:


U.S. Postal Service
Catalog Request
P.O. Box 219014
Kansas City, MO 64121-9014

Philatelic Products
There are six philatelic products available for this stamp issue:
· 469961, First-Day Cover, 89 cents
· 469965, Digital Color Postmark, $1.60
· 469984, Uncut Press Sheet, $72.00
· 469991, Ceremony Program, $6.95
· 469997, Commemorative Panel, $9.95
· 469999, Cancellation Keepsake (DCP w/Pane), $10.95

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

iRig KEYS midi controller keyboard now available

IK Multimedia – the leader in mobile music creation accessories for iOS – is proud to announce iRig™ KEYS, the first ultra-slim and highly portable universal MIDI controller keyboard for iPhone, iPod touch, iPad and Mac/PC.


iRig KEYS connects directly to the dock connector of the iOS device or the USB port on Mac/PC. It features 37 velocity-sensitive mini-keys — 3 full octave range plus one note, which takes up minimal space when used on a desktop, and can easily fit in a backpack or a carry-on bag.

iRig KEYS is Core MIDI and USB class compliant for a true plug-and-play experience both with iOS devices or Mac/PC, with no additional apps, software or drivers needed. For total mobility, iRig KEYS also is an ultra-low power consumption unit. When hooked up to an iPhone/iPod touch/iPad, it can be powered by the device and for longer playing sessions it can be powered by the available USB port. When connected to a Mac/PC, the USB port powers it.



iRig KEYS is the ultimate player and producers’ companion that can be used any time and anywhere inspiration strikes. Players simply hook it up to an iOS device or a computer and start playing. iRig KEYS can be used for live performance, songwriting and composition with the included apps and software or with a multitude of other MIDI compatible instruments and recorders on any iOS, MacOS or Windows system

A small controller with great features
For maximum playing comfort and versatility, iRig KEYS includes regular modulation and pitch-bending wheels, plus an input for an optional standard sustain pedal that accommodates any playing style, all housed in a sleek ultra-compact durable package.
iRig KEYS features an “easy-to-use” programmable control panel with 5 backlit soft-touch buttons and one volume/data knob. Program and Octave up/down buttons are included plus a Set button that allows storage of up to 4 different customized set-ups for the two wheels and the data knob. Each set-up can be instantly recalled for specific instruments configurations. An Edit mode is also available to transpose the keyboard, send specific program change messages, change MIDI channel and reassign the data knob MIDI control changes in a flash.

Plug and play out of the box
iRig KEYS comes complete with two free professional quality virtual instrument apps and software that can be immediately downloaded and played, for a true plug-and-play experience right out of the box.
For iPhone, iPod touch and iPad, iRig KEYS comes with:

- SampleTank for iPhone or iPad FREE, the virtual sound module including a complete selection of acoustic, electric and electronic instruments and patterns, unlocking 48 bonus instruments in addition of the 20 included with the free version (to be downloaded from the App Store)

On Mac/PC iRig KEYS come with a downloadable version of:

- SampleTank 2 L the Mac/PC sample workstation, available both as a stand-alone and as a plug-in for most popular DAW (including GarageBand, Logic, ProTools, Cubase, Live, Sonar and more) with 2 GB of samples in every instruments category (to be downloaded from the IK Multimedia online User Area



Price and availability

iRig KEYS will be shipping in Fall 2012 for $99.99/€74.99 (excluding taxes) and will be available from musical instrument and consumer electronics retailers around the world. Pre-orders are now available from the IK Online store and other selected online stores.



For more information:

www.irigkeys.com

www.ikmultimedia.com



Check out/share the video of iRig Keys on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7vtBy7HLq8

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Yoko Ono designs for Swarovski

Inspired by hope, peace and dreams, conceptual artist Yoko Ono created two exclusive crystal key cuts for fall 2012, adding to SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS’ roll-call of illustrious designer partnerships including Christian Dior, Giorgio Armani, Andrée Putman and Manish Arora.

A pioneering figure in the sixties’ conceptual art and seventies’ new wave movements, Yoko Ono’s work spans music, film and writing, as well as performance, painting and sculpture. Today she still thrives on her social activism and philanthropic contributions, breaking cultural boundaries and giving expression to her creativity in completely original ways.

Her latest creative endeavor is her collaboration with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS. The limited-edition contemporary key-cut crystal collection combines her trademark playfulness with a search for deeper philosophical meaning, and launches fall 2012. Designed around the theme of ‘Unlocking the Door to a Better Life’, the collection has distinct echoes of a childhood spent in war-torn Japan, which motivated Yoko Ono’s commitment to pacifism. The collection symbolizes her hopes and dreams for our planet: “Imagine a key that unlocks the door to the forest with its secrets, to the sky with its peacefulness, to the universe with its infinity, to a future with a promise for a better life.”

One of her designs, an elegant oversized key on a silver chain is available in a crystal silver shade in a limited-edition run of 1,300 pieces, each engraved with Yoko Ono’s signature and its limited-edition number. This crystal silhouette, “KEY TO OPEN THE UNIVERSE,” symbolizes the spirit of all the possibilities the universe holds: “Imagine two billion universes,” Yoko Ono says, “and visualize yourself on a planet in each universe.” Wearing this beautiful, thought-provoking piece allows us to share Yoko Ono’s vision of the power of the imagination.

The second silhouette, “KEY TO OPEN THE FOREST,” has been designed in seven color ways with two size options – a medium or small pendant – the medium-sized design is embellished with a tiny dangling metal key set off with a crystal chaton; and the smaller pendant is on a black cord for a laidback, casual look. Both feature the Yoko Ono signature and retail for $90 - $190.

The collection launches on Fashion’s Night Out, Thursday, September 6 and will be available in select SWAROVSKI stores worldwide, as well as SWAROVSKI CRYSTALLIZED stores in New York City, Vienna, Wattens, Innsbruck and London.

Paula Abdul partners with Avon for jewely collection

Avon is thrilled to announce a partnership with Paula Abdul who has curated the brand’s holiday jewelry collection of sparkling, glamorous, festive pieces for the season. The “Forever selected by Paula Abdul” collection features earrings, necklaces, bracelets and watches in colors, finishes and designs handpicked by Abdul.

“As someone who’s been in the public eye for decades, I’m very particular about the jewelry I wear,” explains Abdul. “It was such an amazing experience collaborating with Avon to bring fans a jewelry collection that really reflects my taste and who I am.”

The accessories, available through Avon Representatives, will be available mid-November.

For more information on the new collection or some more behind the scenes footage from Avon’s shoot with Paula Abdul like the below, please visit here:
http://www.multivu.com/mnr/57710-avon-products-paula-abdul-exclusive-holiday-jewelry-collection

Xander Demos signature guitar released

MTS Management Group and Rock 'N' Growl Records' metal guitar virtuoso, Xander Demos are proud to announce the completion of Xander's first signature model guitar, the McNaught XD727. The 7-string, 27-fret guitar features an altered-strat body with a double cutaway for easy access to the upper frets. The first XD727 also features a quilted top, with a Carribean Burst finish (natural to green to blue.) Production on the model began in May. Consumers will be able to order the model directly from McNaughtGuitars.com. A step-by-step photo story of the completed construction is also available at Clubmcnaught.com.

Complete specs for the XD727 are: Basswood body, black back, Quilted Maple top, custom burst, TRS-PRO7 tremolo (won't be used on production models), EMG 707 (bridge), EMG 707-TW (neck), 27 frets, Stainless Steel 6100 fret size, Luminlay side marker dots, MOP and Malachite block inlays, Ebony fingerboard with flame maple binding, reverse headstock, three-way pickup selector, master volume and EMG SPC control.

Xander Demos posted this statement on his Facebook page: "This is another moment I have been waiting the better part of my life for: the completion of my own signature model guitar. This is brought to you by the uber-talented David Thomas McNaught of McNaught Guitars. Words can't express my gratitude...."

Dave McNaught, owner of McNaught Guitars has been quoted as saying: "My top 3 guitar players: Randy Rhoads, Paul Gilbert, and Xander Demos,...in no particular order."

Xander Demos is a solo metal guitarist and member of the east coast chapter of Sabbath Judas Sabbath. His debut solo CD, "Guitarcadia" was mixed by Cj Snare of the band Firehouse, and it is being re-released digitally by Rock 'N' Growl Records on August 24, 2012. For more information, visit www.Xanderdemos.com.

David Thomas McNaught Guitars is a one-man shop located in Locust, North Carolina. All designs, woodworking, inlays, and paint work are done in-house by David McNaught. Other artists playing McNaught Guitars include John 5 (Rob Zombie,) John Schaffer (Iced Earth,) Neal Schon (Journey,) and Tony Rombola (Godsmack,) who also has just received a signature guitar from McNaught.

Pink Floyd inspires wine

Listening to Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon over and over on his iPod, winemaker Mark Beaman ventured into new territory in wine making. To capture the intense, brooding character of The Dark Side of the Moon he turned to a classic wine variety, Cabernet Sauvignon. A varietal with a deep, complex character that takes a relaxed environment to fully appreciate, Cabernet Sauvignon reflects the hauntingly dense, timeless character of Pink Floyd’s masterpiece album.

The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon captures the attitude of Mendocino County’s style. Aromas of black currant and cherry are followed by rich flavors of cassis, toasted vanilla bean, and hints of chocolate. Enjoy this rich dry red wine with hearty chicken dishes, beef and lamb, and red sauced pasta.


What is Wines that Rock? It’s actually quite an interest concept. As passionate wine lovers and die-hard music fans, Wines That Rock is creating its own category in the wine industry - “Great Tasting Wines Inspired by Music”. Wine and Music: with classic tracks from The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd and The Woodstock Festival blasting in the cellar, the winemaker Mark Beaman crafted custom wines for each of these legendary artists and their timeless albums - blending one-of-a-kind wines with Rock ‘n Roll mythology. Other offerings include:

· The Police’s Synchronicity
· Rolling Stones’s Forty Licks Merlot
· Greatful Dead Red Wine Blend
· Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon Cabernet Sauvigon
· Woodstock Chardonnay

Pigtronix releases Philospher's Rock Pedal

Pigtronix Announces Release of the Philosopher's Rock Pedal



The Philosopher's Rock is a compressor sustainer and germanium overdrive pedal that expands the already notorious line of Philosopher pedals from Long Island's Pigtronix effects. The Philosopher's Rock is the over-achieving little brother of the company's top selling sustain pedal, the Philosopher's Tone. Simplified down to offer up the best sounds of its predecessor, the Philosopher's Rock sports a streamlined control layout plus the added benefit of germanium enhanced overdrive, along with an unbeatable price point.



The Philosopher's Rock utilizes Pigtronix award winning compression circuit that has been acclaimed by the likes of Andy Summers, Dweezil Zappa, Johnny Hiland and Billy Sheehan. On this new unit, the controls have been paired down to a classic compressor layout of just 2 knobs (Volume & Sustain) plus a single toggle switch for layering in a refined, vintage flavored germanium overdrive.



With a four times wider range of compression, endless sustain, germanium overdrive and a new vertical footprint and idiot proof control layout, the Philosopher's Rock is destined to become a future classic.



"The Philosopher's Rock is Killer. It must go in my rig stat!" - Ian Thornely of Big Wreck

"The Philosopher's Rock is incredible!" - Brad Whitford of Aerosmith



Pigtronix Philosopher's Rock carries a list price of $175 and is available now at Pigtronix dealers everywhere. Check out the Philosopher's Rock and the entire 2012 lineup of Pigtronix effects at: www.pigtronix.com

IK Multimedia releases AmpliTube Slash app & software

IK Multimedia is proud to release AmpliTube® Slash, the
official Slash apps and software that let you play, practice and record
with Slash’s signature pedals and amplifiers on the iPhone®, iPod touch®,
iPad® and Mac®/PC.



All versions of AmpliTube Slash feature models of the signature gear used
by Slash in the studio and for his live performances. Now users can rock
with models of the legendary Marshall® amplifiers used by Slash together
with his signature guitar pedals. Also included is a comprehensive
collection of Slash’s guitar tone settings provided as starting points for
tone tweaking or playing along.

Additionally AmpliTube Slash provides a fully integrated multi-track
recording studio for capturing ideas quickly and easily or producing
entire songs and compositions. A robust song player section gives users
the ability to play along with songs or backing tracks by importing them
directly from their device library or computer.

“My new album, Apocalyptic Love, was entirely written while we were on
tour,” states Slash, adding, “If we are not performing we’re traveling, so
there is little time for creating music. By using my iPhone along with
IK’s AmpliTube and iRig I was able to capture whatever ideas I had
swimming in my head, usually around 4am.”

“AmpliTube iRig comes in really handy for on-the-go practicing, recording,
or just jamming on different ideas – even if it’s on the bus – it’s right
with me all the time”, Slash adds, “I’ll do some tweaks on the Marshall’s,
but there are also different effects that are available including
distortion, chorus, auto wah and more.”



Superior Modeling – The Real Deal

IK worked closely with Slash to model his entire rig comprised of 2
must-have classic rock amplifiers – the Marshall JCM Slash Edition Silver
Jubilee and the Marshall AFD100 – both equipped with Slash’s favorite 1960
Marshall speaker cabinet. Together with these sought-after amplifiers
users will be able to choose from 6 stompbox effects that includes Slash’s
signature Delay, Gate, Octave/Fuzz, Chorus, Booster and Wah/Distortion.
The rig is fully configurable so that the signal chain can be freely
customized depending upon the device used: 3 stompbox effects into an amp
and cabinet on the iPhone/iPod touch; 4 stompbox effects and
amp/cabinet/mic on the iPad, and up to 12 stompbox effect combinations
into dual amp/cab/mic/room on the Mac/PC.

AmpliTube Slash is the latest addition to the family of official IK guitar
and bass products that, thanks to IK’s unmatched modeling technologies,
features products with the best names in guitar effects and amplification
such as Fender™, Ampeg®, Orange®, Soldano™, Seymour Duncan™, T-Rex® as
well as legendary artist Jimi Hendrix™.



Hook up with Slash:

Users can plug their guitar into their iPhone, iPod touch or iPadusing
IK’s extremely popular iRig™ guitar interface adapter or the coming soon
iRig STOMP pedal interface adapter. Users with Mac/PC can connect their
guitar via USB port using IK’s StealthPedal™ digital audio interface pedal
or StealthPlug™ cable interface that now also works with iPad using Apple
Camera Connection Kit.



Pricing and availability:

AmpliTube Slash for iPhone and iPad are now available from the App Store™
now at an introductory price of $9.99/€7.99.

Existing users of AmpliTube for iPhone, iPod touch or iPad can purchase
AmpliTube Slash as an in-app purchase for $9.99/€7.99, or individual
models a la carte starting at $2.99/€1.99.

For Mac/PC users, AmpliTube Slash can be purchased inside AmpliTube Custom
Shop for $79.99/€59.99 (excluding taxes), or individual models can be
purchased a' la carte starting from $5 each. AmpliTube Custom Shop can be
downloaded for free at:

www.amplitube.com/customshop



For more information on AmpliTube Slash:

www.amplitube.com/slash



For all other software products and guitar interfaces, please visit:

www.ikmultimedia.com



More on Slash:

Slash and his band, featuring lead singer Myles Kennedy, drummer Brent
Fitz and bassist Todd Kearns aka The Conspirators have just released their
new album APOCALYPTIC LOVE on May 22nd, 2012 that has stormed onto the
Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart at #4, marking the top rock debut for that
week. All songs on APOCALYPTIC LOVE released on Slash’s own Dik Hayd
International, and distributed through EMI Label Services were written
together by Slash and Myles Kennedy as they spent the last two years on
tour all over the world. Slash and his band are currently on the road
performing sold-out shows across the country and overseas. For up-to-date
information, visit: http://www.slashonline.com

U.S. Post Office issues Disney Pixar stamps

Amid a sea of smiles, the U.S. Postal Service celebrated the issuance of 125 million new stamps today featuring popular Disney•Pixar characters. The Mail a Smile Forever stamps official First-Day-of-Issue dedication ceremony took place at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.



A video of the event can be viewed beginning at 1 p.m. today at this link: www.youtube.com/uspstv.



Available nationwide today, all 125 million stamps can be purchased online at www.usps.com/shop, by calling 1-800-STAMP-24 (1-800-782-6724) or by visiting Post Offices.



“These delightful stamps lift spirits and touch hearts and remind us that when it comes to connecting with loved ones, technology is no match for the mail,” said Jo Ann Feindt, Postal Service Southern Area vice president, in dedicating the stamps as part of the resort’s grand opening.



Joining Feindt in dedicating the stamp featuring beloved Disney•Pixar characters was Jay Ward, legacy guardian for Pixar Animation Studios.



“We’re thrilled ‘to infinity and beyond’ that these popular characters from ‘Toy Story 2,’ ‘Finding Nemo’ and other great Disney•Pixar films are featured on these colorful new stamps,” said Ward. “This stamp issue will make posting a letter lots of fun for everyone in the family.”



Following up on Send a Hello stamps issued in 2011, the eagerly awaited Mail a Smile stamp sheet includes five different designs spotlighting:



§ Flik and Dot from “A Bug’s Life” (1998);

§ Bob Parr (Mr. Incredible) and Dashiell “Dash” Parr from “The Incredibles” (2004), with “Dash” also shown running in the background;

§ Nemo and Squirt from “Finding Nemo” (2003);

§ Woody, Bullseye, and Jessie from “Toy Story 2” (1999); and

§ Boo, Mike Wazowski, and James P. “Sulley” Sullivan from “Monsters, Inc.” (2001).



The back of the stamp sheet shows blue-pencil sketches of characters from these movies interspersed among text that exhorts readers to mail a smile to a loved one. Postal Service art director William Gicker of Washington, DC, worked with Disney•Pixar to design the stamp art.



Customers may view the Disney•Pixar characters Forever stamps, as well as many of this year’s other stamps, and vote for their favorite stamps on Facebook at www.facebook.com/USPSStamps, through www.Twitter.com/USPSstamps or on the website Beyond the Perf at www.beyondtheperf.com/2012-preview. Beyond the Perf is the Postal Service’s online site for background information on upcoming stamp subjects, first-day-of-issue events and other philatelic news.



How to Order the First-Day-of-Issue Postmark

Customers have 60 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at a local Post Office, online at usps.com/shop or by calling 800-STAMP-24. They should affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes to themselves or others and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:



Mail a Smile Stamp
Main Office — Orlando
10401 Post Office Drive
Orlando, FL 32862-9998



After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service will return the envelopes by mail. There is no charge for the postmark. All orders must be postmarked by Aug. 1, 2012.



How to Order First-Day Covers

The Postal Service also offers first-day covers for new stamp issues and Postal Service stationery items postmarked with the official first-day-of-issue cancellation. Each item has an individual catalog number and is offered in the quarterly USA Philatelic Catalog, online at usps.com/shop or by calling 800-782-6724. Customers may request a free catalog by calling 800-782-6724 or writing to:



U.S. Postal Service Catalog Request

PO Box 219014

Kansas City, MO 64121-9014



Philatelic Products

There are nine philatelic products available for this stamp issue:

§ 470063, First-Day Cover Set of 5, $4.45.

§ 470066, Postcards (20) 4 of each design, $15.95.

§ 470067, First-Day-of-Sale Set of 5, $4.45.

§ 470068, Digital Color Postmark (DCP) Set of 5, $8.

§ 470084, Uncut Press Sheets, $36.

§ 470091, Ceremony Program (random single), $6.95.

§ 470092, Stamp Deck Card, $0.95.

§ 470094, Stamp Deck Card w/DCP (random single), $1.95.

§ 470099, Cancellation Keepsake (Random DCP w/Pane), $10.95.



The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

FuseTar Lucifer, new 16-string instrument, created

FuseTar "Lucifer" is a triple-necked, 16-stringed, extraordinary new hand-made music instrument, created by Iranian multi-instrumentalist Shahab Tolouie (http://www.Shahab-Tolouie.com ) around an ambitiously broad concept that in enabling connections between world musicalities, encompasses both aural and cultural traditions.

Approximately two years ago, Shahab Tolouie began the realization of his long-term idea to gather the diverse strands of Persian, jazz and flamenco together in a manner that incorporates modern technologies in one instrument to attain the precise timbres that are optimal for live
performance of his original style - Persian-flamenco fusion.

The name is derived from "fuse" - English for "fusion" and "tar" - Farsi for "strings," hence "fusion of strings." The nickname Lucifer is that of the mythological morning star, the bearer of light.

It took a year and half for two luthiers, Mehr & Owrang (Crimson Oath), to build the FuseTar. It is made of thirteen different types of wood and weighs 2.1 kg. With an acoustic chamber approximately 2cm larger than that on a regular guitar, the FuseTar possesses three necks. The uppermost is a fretless neck, which makes possible to play the quarter-tones peculiar to eastern music. The middle neck is the "guitar neck," a combination flamenco/jazz guitar configured with the "true temperament" fretting technology, which produces more accurate intonations and longer sustain than a normal guitar and is used, for example, by John McLaughlin and Steve Vai. The third neck is a Persian "setar neck" with four strings fretted for quarter-tones, a traditional instrument whose roots stretch back 2,000 years. This is the first time a traditional Persian instrument has been modernized with the fixed, "true temperament" fretting system.

At the same time FuseTar is a unique work of art - carefully decorated by elements from three of the most significant historical periods of the Persian Empire (Achaemenid: the Lion-griffin - a protector from evil; Parthian & Sassanid: Derafsh Kaviani - symbol of independence and freedom; Lion and Sun - which have always been associated with Persian royalty) ... and Faravahar - the best-known symbol of Zoroastrianism.

IK Multimedia launches redesigned website

IK Multimedia has unveiled a completely redesigned version 2.0 website to deliver additional information and broader functionality while creating a more user-friendly experience for its customers. The new site offers in-depth features on all IK products, on streamlined new product pages, along with enhanced interactive media-rich tools to assist in product selection. The new site, online now at www.ikmultimedia.com , offers intuitive navigation to the entire family of products including mobile, computer software & plug-ins, guitar & bass, vocal, keyboard and DJ.

A new online web store is the centerpiece of the new website that provides a streamlined shopping experience. Users can quickly find what they need by searching for a specific application (guitar, vocals, DJ, etc.), device type (iOS, computer, etc.), price threshold or via the search bar. Dynamic content in the store and throughout the website is tailored to geographic locations. This way, regional variables such as pricing are presented in the local currency. This localization capability also extends to your personal profile including personal pricing with IK JamPoints reward program as well as news and special product offers.


Users are now fully empowered with an improved support interface to manage product authorizations, licenses and download product updates.
The site’s built-in social functions facilitate easy news sharing on IK’s forum and social channels such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, SoundCloud.
For those not fluent in the English language, the new website offers a solution. Japanese customers will be the first to take advantage of the new site’s multi-language capabilities, with a fully translated website in their native language, soon to be followed by a Chinese version and more languages to come.


Plus IK is also making both iRig STOMP, the first stompbox guitar interface for iPhone/iPad/iPod touch and iRig PRE, universal microphone interface for iPhone/iPad/iPod touch, available for pre-order sales to enhance your music-making capabilities while you are on the go.

For more information, please visit the IK Multimedia website:
www.ikmultimedia.com

Sheryl Crow and Gibson release new guitar

Gibson Acoustic and Sheryl Crow announce their second collaboration with the release of the Sheryl Crow Southern Jumbo Special Edition. This new Southern Jumbo is the most advanced acoustic-electric Southern Jumbo available.



In 2010, Crow modified her entire live acoustic guitar line-up with the same new and advanced pickup system used in the Gibson Jackson Browne model released earlier that year. After an extensive in-studio comparison of guitars and pickups, the idea for her Southern Jumbo Special Edition was born.

Crow’s new Southern Jumbo is built for power and projection with wider X-bracing on the red spruce top. With mahogany back and sides, the combination of wood and pattern bracing gives this SJ a dynamic and responsive tonal range unlike any Southern Jumbo Gibson has built. The acoustic-electric version of this guitar has the same incredible stereo pickup system used in the highly-acclaimed Jackson Browne Model.



Traditional appointments like Ivroid Waverly tuners, vintage Gibson script logo and banner decal, a hand-beveled pickguard, bound fingerboard and a custom classic sunburst finish, result in a beautiful guitar with a classic appearance. The onboard electronics unleash a new level of acoustic performance capability never before achieved in an acoustic pickup.



“Having tested many internal pickup systems on many guitars,” said Robi Johns, project director with Gibson Acoustic, “we’ve discovered a new realm we never thought possible for live performance natural sound. This guitar, combined with this pickup system, can change the way players interact with their instrument on stage. It’s very exciting. Our goal is to get to the point where, as a player, you forget that you’re plugged in.”



Gibson continues to advance acoustic guitar tone and performance through innovation, experimentation and collaboration with world-class players.

Harman's DigiTech releases next generation Whammy pedal

HARMAN’s DigiTech today introduced its next-generation Whammy pedal, building upon one of the most iconic guitar pedals recognized by guitarists around the world. The new Whammy features the classic Whammy sound that guitarists have embraced for over 20 years, and moves to the next level by introducing chordal Whammy pitch-shifting, additional Whammy intervals, and true bypass.

For over two decades the Whammy pedal has been known as the ultimate pitch-shifting pedal in the world, used by everyone from Jimmy Page to Tom Morello and heard on songs like “Seven Nation Army” by the White Stripes and the Black Keys’ recent hit, “Lonely Boy.” The introduction of new possibilities with the Whammy pedal reinforces its legendary status of the pitch-shifting realm.

“The release of the new Whammy is the latest chapter in the pitch-shifting revolution. Bringing together the best of the original Whammy with the latest developments offering both classic and chord shifting modes, we are giving guitarists a reason to rediscover the unrivaled tone that makes this pedal a legend in the first place,” stated Rob Urry, vice president, HARMAN Professional Division and general manager of Signal Processing and Amplifier Business Units.

The Whammy lets guitar and bass players raise and lower their tuning by up to two octaves, to create pitch shifts from subtle to extreme and dramatic musical effects not possible with any other pedal. The Whammy now incorporates new pitch-shifting technologies that enable the player to bend entire chords up or down while keeping all the notes in the chord perfectly in tune. The Whammy also keeps its signature Classic single-note mode that has made the pedal one of the most recognizable in rock and contemporary music, along with nine Harmony 2-note interval settings and two Detune modes.

Offering true bypass means that the signal from the guitar is completely unaffected by the Whammy when it’s switched off, maintaining all the purity of the guitar signal when the player doesn’t want anything altering his or her sound. This can be especially important when using a lot of pedals on a pedalboard. The Whammy won’t alter your sound – until you want it to!

The Whammy also includes 1/4-inch inputs and outputs, a MIDI input that allows control of the pedal from an external MIDI device, and a 9-volt DC power input. The Whammy employs high-quality 24-bit/96kHz analog-to-digital and digital-to analog converters for clean, smooth pitch-bending sound. An on/off switch engages and disengages the Whammy effect, and a “Classic/Chords” switch lets players select either mode. The Whammy is built to withstand the rigors of the road, with a rugged all-metal chassis, pedal and footswitch with a bold “Whammy” logo proudly displayed.

The DigiTech Whammy will be available in May 2012 at $299.95 MSRP.

Kohler launches new bath music and more

VibrAcoustic Technology Offers Remarkable Relaxation & Music In The Bathroom

Kohler's technologically advanced baths integrate music, water vibration and lights
in the popular Underscore collection

http://www.us.kohler.com/us/

Adding to the wave of its recent technology
innovations, Kohler Co. introduces VibrAcoustic technology on all nine
models of their popular Underscore bath line. VibrAcoustic is a
technology-based sound therapy defined as hearing and feeling sound
vibrations through the body. Focused on complete body relaxation, the new
Underscore VibrAcoustic baths are engineered to ease tension and stress.
Additionally, the quality of the sound system is so good that it can be used
as a stand-alone audio solution for the entire bathroom. The bather can
stream music and podcasts through the bath from a mobile device via hardwire
connection or wirelessly with a Bluetooth receiver. The VibrAcoustic
technology is controlled by an intuitive full-color touch screen user
interface.

"KOHLER VibrAcoustic technology truly is a multi-dimensional experience. It s
like going to a rock concert - you can hear and feel the music and
vibrations throughout your body," says Ann Roever, business director for
Kohler bathing products. "With four original compositions to choose from and
the ability to play your own music, it's an experience that can fit any
mood."

The four experiences are original compositions that integrate music,
vibration and lighting in order to encourage the bather's breathing rate to
align with the beats or chord structures. These VibrAcoustic experiences
envelop the bather in a multi-sensory environment. These original
compositions were created in collaboration with a renowned sound therapist
and are choreographed uniquely for this bath to optimize the vibroacoustic
effect, in which the body is led into a state of complete relaxation. In
addition, two massaging beat experiences add even more physical vibration
that can be adjusted to the desired level of intensity to personalize the
bathing experience.

Six transducers producing music/vibrations are strategically placed
surrounding the bath allowing the bather to not only hear but also feel the
music streaming in from one of the four preset VibrAcoustic experiences. The
transducers are located both below the water for the vibration experience
and above the water for the audio. A newly designed touch screen user
interface allows bathers full control of their experience and the option of
listening to a favorite play list from their mobile device, internet radio
or home computer by simply plugging your device into the amplifier or
streaming wirelessly with any Bluetooth receiver.

Chromatherapy lighting is synchronized with the four preset VibrAcoustic
experiences and will also align itself with the rhythm of outside music. The
four lights in the bath cycle through eight different colors and myriad
color combinations and patterns. A color dial even allows bathers to choose
a particular hue of each color.

The acrylic Underscore bath is available in nine sizes ranging from 60-by-30
inches to 72-by-42 inches, including a 48-by-48-inch cube-shaped model, and
is available in five colors with both drop-in and undermount installation to
ensure a natural fit with other design elements in the bathroom. The
Underscore baths' simple, crisp design lines perfectly complement granite,
stone or tile. Underscore baths feature a slotted overflow that creates a
deeper-than-normal soaking experience.

In comparison to overflow drains found on traditional baths that are round
and positioned lower, limiting the water depth, the large, slotted overflow
drain positioned near the Underscore bath rim maximizes the level of water
in the bath for a true soaking experience.

MSRP: Price ranges from $1,055.70 for the 60-by-30-inch VibrAcoustic bath to
$4,634.55 for the 72-by-36-inch Underscore VibrAcoustic bath with
Chromatherapy.

For more information go to:
http://www.us.kohler.com/us/VibrAcoustic -Hydrotherapy/content/CNT2400525.htm

Webster's toasts Mother's Day

Shop For The Perfect Gift
Beginning May 5 through May 12, 2012 shopping for the perfect Mother’s Day gift is made easier at Webster’s Community Pharmacy. Purchases of $30 or more from the Gift Department will qualify for a complimentary Mother’s Day designer pin (while supplies last). Follow the buzz about the hottest trends in Altadena to our Gift Department. Our staff loves fashion and is ready to assist in pulling together something extraordinary for the mother in your life. "Our staff loves fashion and is ready to assist in pulling together something extraordinary for the mother in your life", commented co-owner, Meredith Miller.

Gift Basket Drawing
Enter for a chance to win 1 of 3 amazing gift baskets filled with Mother’s Day goodies starting May 5 through May 12, 2012. Keep your fingers crossed! Drawing will be held on Saturday, May 12 at 2PM -- winners do not to make a purchase or be present to win.

Chomp, Shop, and Save 20%
For your convenience, Webster’s Community Pharmacy will be open late on May 11 for Fancy Food Truck Fridays. On this day only from 5PM to 9PM shoppers will enjoy a special 20% savings on purchases of $20 or more. This is a perfect opportunity to pick up a Mother's Day gift while working off a few calories after feasting.

More Treats
Not to be forgotten! A special table will be out by the registers on May 11 and 12, topped with sweet treats and iced tea. (Our version of a Mom’s Day Tea.) What better way to shop than by nibbling through the aisles?

Fast Facts:
A Mother’s Day Dazzling Week: May 5 through May 12
Location: 2450 N. Lake Avenue, Altadena CA, Corner of N. Lake and Marcheta
For more information: 626-797-1163

Webster's Community Pharmacy in Altadena, CA offers pharmaceutical services. We are a full service prescription pharmacy and carry medical supplies. Hard to find greeting cards, gifts, jewelry, and fashion accessories are also available for purchase. We have been serving Altadena and Pasadena since 1926. Owners Meredith and Michael Miller (formerly of Fair Oaks Pharmacy and Soda Fountain, South Pasadena) are dedicated to revitalizing and restoring this Altadena gem to its original landmark status. We are committed to building a strong community bond with our neighbors by producing and hosting various fun family events. Fancy Food Truck Fridays is one our most popular events that is fast becoming a local favorite where neighbors meet and visit with each other.

Facebook: Webster’s Community Pharmacy Twitter: @WebstersPharm

Mignon Faget items to benefit The Roots of Music

Mignon Faget is preparing for the Festival season with the addition of a new High Note T-shirt to her beloved High Note jewelry designs and High Note Umbrella.

Mignon Faget, New Orleans artist and jewelry designer, began her design career over forty years ago with designs inspired by the nature, architecture and history of her home. The High Note Collection features the new High Note t-shirt, the High Note Umbrella and sterling silver, 14K gold or enamel plated musical notes engraved with the fleur de lis, the symbol of our city. On the back of each note is in inscribed “Do you know what it means…” from the classic New Orleans jazz number Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans?

“The Jazz & Heritage Festival is a time when we celebrate our strength and diversity through artistic expression and the High Note Collection reflects that.”

In celebration of music and in support of our community, Mignon will donate a percentage of sales of all High Note designs to The Roots of Music. The Roots of Music is dedicated to supporting, promoting, teaching and protecting at-risk youth through music education, academic support and mentorship, while preserving and promoting the New Orleans musical heritage. The Roots of Music is New Orleans’ only tuition free, city-wide marching band and has been selected to march in the 124th Tournament of Roses Parade on January 1st, 2013.

Mignon Faget’s High Note collection is available in Mignon Faget galleries in New Orleans and Baton Rouge and online at http://www.mignonfaget.com/.

Wear Your Music combines music, fashion and charity

Bringing you a twist on your everyday music story with the combination of music, fashion and philanthropy -- Wear Your Music is the source for music merchandise with a conscious.

The Original Artist Bracelets are a series of bangle-style bracelets crafted from used guitar and bass strings, donated by over 150 artists (such as Eric Clapton, Jack Johnson and Bonnie Raitt) They are sold on the Wear Your Music website (www.wearyourmusic.org ) with 100% of profits going to a charity selected by the artist with over $60k donated in 2011. Wear Your Music bracelets are letting music fans, do just that.

ArtistWorks launches online super campus for music education

ArtistWorks, the leading music education platform, has unveiled an online super campus at www.artistworks.com by bringing together their thirteen online music schools, giving learners worldwide access to one of the largest collections of music lessons and music teachers online.

With over 32,000 instructional videos and Video Exchange™ music lessons and students in 58 countries, ArtistWorks is now the leading provider of subscription based music instruction. ArtistWorks uses its patent pending Video Exchange™ learning platform to create interactive online schools for high-profile music artists to teach their instrument online.

ArtistWorks is benefiting from the increasing trend of people giving up on traditional music lessons, DVD’s and one-way downloads in favor of sites that allow them to learn an instrument directly with award-winning teachers from the comfort of their living room and on their time and at their own pace.

Under the Video Exchange™ platform, players from absolute beginner to advanced upload videos of themselves playing directly to the site for their teacher’s review. The teacher then responds to the student in a personalized video reply with advice on how to improve. Both student and teacher’s video are shown together and seen by the entire student community and act as a giant online master class. With new Video Exchanges added regularly, the Video Exchange Library is always expanding and serves as a repository for tips and instruction. Subscribing members also get access to a high-resolution video lesson library, which includes multi-angle camera view selection, slow motion capability and video looping.

Artists already using the platform to teach include two time Grammy Award winner and harmonica virtuoso Howard Levy, drumming superstars Billy Cobham and Thomas Lang, turntablist DJ Qbert, pianist Christie Peery, award winning British fingerstyle guitarist Martin Taylor, Swedish jazz guitarist Andreas Oberg, and leading Bluegrass artists Tony Trischka, Mike Marshall, Darol Anger, Missy Raines, Andy Hall and Bryan Sutton.

Jeanie a student at ArtistWorks’ Fiddle School with Darol Anger learns from her home in North Carolina and said of her experience:

“I was looking for lessons because I wanted very much to take up the fiddle after a half century absence. The lessons are plentiful enough to keep me busy for a very long time and the lessons are well done. As if that weren't enough, it seems that everyone is having fun here and I certainly wanted to be a part of that and, at the end, these lessons are very affordable.”

Commenting on ArtistWorks’ growth President and Co-Founder of ArtistWorks Patricia Butler said,

“Most of our members have reignited their passion for the music they played in their youth. But now their aspirations are more about enjoying the music they make than starring in a rock band.”

Based in Napa, Calif., ArtistWorks is part of a wider education technology (EdTech) movement that includes Khan Academy, Lynda.com, Codecademy and Edmodo. A recent LA Times feature on the company highlighted how their patent pending Video Exchange™ technology uses asynchronous learning to deal with issues caused normally by webcast or traditional music lessons.

As quoted in the LA Times article, Mike McGuire, a media analyst with Gartner Inc said: “This ability to time-shift interactions is really a spark of genius. As people get further into communication and information overload, the ability for us to pursue something we really love on our own schedule is increasingly important.”

James Taylor, Director of Global Business Development at ArtistWorks.com added:

“The ArtistWorks Video Exchange platform allows any student to get personalized feedback and guidance from some of the world’s greatest music teachers, regardless of their location or schedule, for far less than the cost of a private lesson. Over the coming months we’ll be expanding our online campus to 23 schools, covering even more instruments, genres and languages.”

The new super campus at www.artistworks.com offers lessons in thirteen different styles and instruments including acoustic guitar, rock drums, piano, harmonica, fiddle, jazz guitar, banjo, mandolin, DJ scratching, jazz drums, acoustic bass, fingerstyle guitar and dobro. Gift certificates are also available.

Guitar World Lick of the Day releases The Beatles Lick Packs

Guitar World and Agile Partners today announced a new release of Guitar World Lick of the Day that introduces The Beatles Lick Packs to the popular app for learning guitar on iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. Arriving just in time to celebrate over one million downloads of Lick of the Day, the new version also introduces Lick Singles so users can select individual licks from the app's extensive catalog of licks. All licks in Guitar World Lick of the Day include high quality videos of guitar instructors or celebrities demonstrating the lick, scrolling tab and standard music notation, and more. The app is powered by TabToolkit, an Apple Design Award winner developed by Agile Partners.

The new Lick Packs in Lick of the Day include two The Beatles Lick Packs with licks from Yesterday, Let it Be, Day Tripper, Ticket to Ride, Paperback Writer, Blackbird, Norwegian Wood, and The End. In addition to The Beatles Lick Packs, the new release also includes five genre-specific Lick Packs to help guitar players master their chops in a wide range of styles: Blues, Acoustic Rock, Classic Metal, Jazz and Bluegrass. Each Lick Pack costs only US$4.99.

The new version of Lick of the Day also introduces Lick Singles, giving users the ability to choose individual licks from an extensive catalog of amazing licks. Lick Singles, including riffs demonstrated by guitar celebrities such as Joe Satriani, Doug Aldrich and Kenny Wayne Shepherd, can be purchased individually for US$0.99. Users can also buy a set of twenty Lick Credits for only US$4.99 and use each Lick Credit to get a Lick Single at a significant discount.

Guitar World Lick of the Day can be downloaded for free to evaluate the app’s features and content. The app comes preloaded with several sample licks. The new release is available now on the iTunes App Store.

Find out more at http://lickofthedayapp.com

Miles Davis and Edith Piaf to be honored with Forever stamps

The United States Postal Service today announced the joint issuance of new Forever stamps honoring two of the world’s greatest musicians, Miles Davis and Edith Piaf. The stamps will be issued with the French postal service, La Poste, in June.



“We look forward to issuing these great stamps jointly with La Poste, continuing a tradition of international celebration of stamps,” says USPS Manager, Stamp Services Stephen Kearney.



“On behalf of the Miles Davis family, we are honored that the U.S. Postal Service and La Poste are paying homage to the timeless legacy of Sir Miles Dewey Davis,” says Cheryl Davis (daughter of Miles), Erin Davis (son of Miles) and Vince Wilburn, Jr., (nephew of Miles), representatives of Miles Davis Properties, LLC.



Miles Davis was in the forefront of jazz musicians for decades, setting trends and exploring musical styles from bebop through cool jazz, fusion and funk. His restless musical exploration made him a hero to many, while sometimes confounding critics and fans. Among his many influential recordings are Birth of the Cool, Kind Of Blue, Sketches Of Spain and In A Silent Way. He was also a great bandleader, and many important musicians rose to prominence in his bands, including saxophonists John Coltrane and Wayne Shorter, drummers Tony Williams and Jack DeJohnette, and pianist Bill Evans, Chick Corea, and Herbie Hancock.



Davis’ music will long be remembered for its profound depth of feeling. By the time of his death in 1991, he had won many prizes and honors, including a GRAMMY Award for Lifetime Achievement. In 1984, he received Denmark’s prestigious Leonie Sonning Music Prize. In 1989, he was awarded the Grande Medaille de Vermeil by the city of Paris, which was presented to him by Jacques Chirac, then mayor and later president of France.



The most recent Miles Davis release entitled The Miles Davis Quintet – Live In Europe 1967: The Bootleg Series Vol.1, continues to rake in accolades. The critically acclaimed volume tops many critics’ year-end picks, and it also landed in first place in both the Jazz Times Critics Poll and the Readers Poll. Slate calls it one of the Best 10 Jazz Albums of the year. The Bitches Brew Deluxe Edition is also earning accolades with a recent win for “Best Historical Package” in the Down Beat Reader’s Poll. On June 27, the LA Philharmonic presents A Miles Davis Celebration at the Hollywood Bowl featuring Marcus Miller “Tutu Revisited,” Miles Electric Band and Kind Of Blue: Jimmy Cobb’s “So What” band.



Americans may know Edith Piaf best for her cheerful song “La Vie en Rose” (“Life In Pink”), about the experience of falling in love and seeing life through rose-colored glasses; the tune is still heard on the streets of Paris today. Piaf’s tumultuous life got off to a stormy start.



Art director Greg Breeding designed the stamps using a black-and-white photo of Davis from 1970 by David Gahr and an undated black-and-white photo of Piaf made by Studio Harcourt Paris.



The Miles Davis and Edith Piaf stamps are being issued as Forever stamps in self-adhesive sheets of 20 (10 of each design). Forever stamps are always equal in value to the current First-Class Mail one-ounce rate. At the time of issuance, the Miles Davis and Edith Piaf stamps are being sold at a price of 45 cents each, or $9 per sheet.



Customers may view the Miles Davis and Edith Piaf Forever stamps, as well as many of this year’s other stamps on Facebook at www.facebook.com/USPSStamps, through Twitter @USPSstamps or on the website Beyond the Perf at www.beyondtheperf.com/2012-preview. Beyone the Perf is the Postal Service’s online site for background on upcoming stamp subjects, first-day-of-issue events and other philatelic news.



The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expences and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.



For more information on Miles Davis, please visit the official website http://www.milesdavis.com/.